Superman vs. The Elite

Movie / Show Details

Amazon.com

Based on Joe Kelly’s Action Comics story What’s So Funny About Truth, Justice & the American Way? (No. 775), Superman vs. the Elite finds Superman in the unusual position of being saved rather than doing the saving. His helpers are a newly fashioned group of freelance superheroes known as the Elite, and at first glance, it looks like there might be a chance for Superman to combine forces with the telepathic Manchester Black and his fellow superheroes in the war against crime. But any hopes of partnership quickly turn into rivalry. The ruthless quartet’s have-no-mercy attitude raises the question of whether the world has moved on to replace Superman and his idealistic beliefs with a new breed of heroes, ones who don’t just stop wrongdoers, but deliver the ultimate judgment. The animation is only adequate in this 14th film in the DC Universe Animated Original Movies line, but the story and the voice talent make the film worth seeing. George Newbern (Superman) and Robin Atkin Downes (Manchester Black) are especially excellent in their roles, and while there are certainly some changes from the original comic, the idea that Superman’s idealism and sense of morality continue to have a place in an increasingly cynical and violent world comes through loud and clear. (Ages 13 and older) –Tami Horiuchi

Product Description

The Elite, a team of super-powered antiheroes, is renowned for killing their enemies. Despite the acclaim and approval the Elite enjoy, Superman knows they are in the wrong, creating more harm than good by their methods. Tensions between them finally culminate in a mass showdown on Jupiter’s moons, when Superman is forced to prove that violence is never a positive.